This two-year Ontario College Diploma program prepares graduates for employment as law clerks (also called legal assistants). Law clerks, who work under the general direction of a lawyer or paralegal, perform routine legal and administrative duties and also assist lawyers and paralegals by conducting a variety of legal functions.

The curriculum covers a broad range of legal topics and processes. Students learn about real estate practices, maintenance of corporate documents and filings, drafting of court documents and correspondence, techniques for interviewing clients and witnesses, preparation of briefs, compiling evidence for trials, and general office procedures.

The program is delivered over four levels of 15 weeks each and students can be admitted in either the September or January session. In the fourth level, qualified students can participate in an optional field placement in a law office or related environment where they gain valuable on-the-job experience.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Have excellent interpersonal and human relations skills.
• Are organized, detail-oriented, and flexible.
• Work well under pressure.
• Have a strong literacy and communications background.